“Where Do We Go from Here” Call to Action
Protecting the Integrity of Science: A Call to Action for Clinical Research Advocates
“As a long-standing member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals and a dedicated clinical trial expert, I am alarmed by recent developments threatening the independence of our nation’s most trusted scientific institutions: the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Political interference in these agencies not only jeopardizes public trust—it puts lives at risk,” says Catherine Gregor, MBA, CCRC, Chief Clinical Trial Officer, Florence Healthcare.
“I have curated these resources for the ACRP community to voice their concerns to their representatives.”
WHAT’S AT STAKE?
The FDA and NIH form the backbone of our biomedical research infrastructure. These institutions ensure that treatments and interventions are vetted with rigorous, evidence-based scrutiny.
Recent troubling trends include:
- Attempts to bypass or diminish the role of FDA advisory committees during drug approvals.
- Political pressure on NIH leadership to skew funding priorities.
- Legislative efforts that seek to curtail independent scientific oversight.
If left unchecked, these moves threaten to:
- Erode public confidence in clinical trials and approvals.
- Expedite the authorization of unsafe or unproven therapies.
- Undermine academic and scientific freedom across the research landscape.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Whether you’re a researcher, patient, clinician, or advocate, you have the power to influence the future of science. Here are a few ways to make your voice heard.
- Contact Your Representatives: Policymakers need to hear from constituents who value scientific integrity. Urge them to:
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- Oppose legislation that politicizes FDA or NIH processes.
- Support robust and sustained funding for both agencies.
- Defend transparent, evidence-based decision-making structures.
Useful Resources:
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- Find your House representative
- Contact your Senators
- Call the Capitol Switchboard: 202.224.3121
- Send an Email or Letter Subject: Protect Scientific Integrity at the FDA and NIH
Dear [Representative/Senator Last Name],
As a constituent and strong supporter of science-based public policy, I write to express my concern about increasing political interference in the operations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
These agencies are foundational to our national health and innovation strategy. Efforts to undermine their independence could compromise patient safety and public trust. I urge you to:
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Preserve the integrity of FDA scientific review and advisory committees.
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Resist efforts to politicize NIH funding or oversight.
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Back robust and consistent funding for both organizations.
Thank you for standing up for science and safeguarding public health.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Title/Role, if applicable]
- Make a Phone Call
Here is a brief script you can use:
“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [City, State]. I’m calling to urge [Representative/Senator Name] to protect the independence of the FDA and NIH. Political interference in these agencies endangers public trust and scientific progress. Please support full funding for both institutions and oppose any legislation that undermines their integrity. Thank you.”
- Engage Your Network
Encourage your colleagues, patient communities, and professional organizations to join this advocacy effort. Share this call to action, organize group outreach, and amplify your message on social media and through webinars.
CONCLUSION
The future of clinical research depends on the independence of our scientific institutions. Let’s ensure the FDA and NIH remain guided by data, ethics, and the best interests of public health. Science needs our voices now more than ever.
